Silver splitters

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Financial fall-out of divorcing in middle age

While the number of couples divorcing has decreased in recent years[1], with 91,299 cases in 2018 compared to 102,007 in 2017, the cohort of couples deciding to split in later life is on the rise. Also, pre-pandemic divorce valuations could have changed by as much as 30%, which may lead to some people receiving unfair settlements if valuations are not updated[2].

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Take it to the max

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How to make the most of the various pension allowances

Saving into a pension is one of the most tax-efficient ways to save for your retirement. Not only do pensions enable you to grow your retirement savings largely free of tax, but they also provide tax relief on the contributions you make.

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Help to Buy scheme

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Homes deadline extended to ensure customers do not miss out

Thousands of families can still benefit from the current Help to Buy scheme despite delays in building their new homes due to coronavirus. The deadline for the homes to have been finished in order to comply with the equity loan scheme has been extended to ensure customers do not miss out if there has been a delay in construction due to the pandemic.

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No-desire to retire generation

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Why working and retirement are no longer binary terms

Giving up the 9-to-5 doesn’t necessarily mean stopping work. Many people are now considering staggered or flexible working. It can suit some individuals who have caring responsibilities or health issues, or those thinking about retiring in the next few years.

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10 tips to achieving your financial goals

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Time to diagnose your money situation with a financial health check?

Even if you have a solid financial plan in place, it still needs to be updated regularly to ensure it reflects any life changes. But what should your priorities focus on now? Is it time to turn your attention to your pension, your ISA, your mortgage, or something else?

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Setting up a new life

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One of the freedoms of retirement is getting to choose where to live

What makes a good place to retire? It’s one of the most basic questions people ask themselves when they start planning for retirement. It’s also one of the most crucial questions and one that, surprisingly, many people don’t give a lot of thought to.

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Divest or engage?

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ESG matters are increasingly important in both retirement and investment planning

Environmental, social and corporate governance issues are increasingly in the news, with some high-profile companies facing public scrutiny, corporate action or litigation. In a world where doing good means a better, more sustainable future, environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors have become an essential measure for sustainability and ethics of a business.

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Caveat emptor: ‘let the buyer beware’

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Increase in victims of financial scams related to COVID-19

As a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, there has sadly been an increase in the number of fraudsters exploiting people’s fears, targeting pension savers, investors and online consumers.

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Revolutionising the retirement landscape

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Navigating complex decisions to shape your retirement finances

Pension freedoms have put a greater onus on people to keep themselves informed of their options when it comes to accessing their pension money. However, little knowledge and understanding of the rules could mean some people risk making decisions that are not best for them.

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Millennials look to build long-term wealth

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Giving up on cash altogether, disillusioned by today’s dismal savings rates

The number of people in their 20s and early 30s choosing to invest in a Stocks & Shares Individual Savings Account (ISA) prior to the coronavirus pandemic outbreak increased according to the latest HM Revenue & Customs annual ISA data[1].

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